Spiced Pearl Couscous with Pine Nuts

Name: Spiced Pearl Couscous with Pine Nuts
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings.
Cuisine: Greek Recipes, Greek Side Dishes
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1-3/4 cups finely chopped sweet onion; 1-1/2 cups uncooked pearl (Israeli) couscous; 1-3/4 cups water; 3/4 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/2 teaspoon curry powder; 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin; 1/4 teaspoon ground coriander; 1/4 cup minced fresh cilantro; 2 tablespoons finely chopped mint leaves; 1/3 cup dried currants; 2 teaspoons grated lemon zest; 1/3 cup pine nuts, toasted; Lemon wedges, optional

This side dish is great for entertaining, as you can prepare the topping ahead of time, and the couscous only takes only minutes. Try adding 1 cup drained and rinsed garbanzo beans to boost the protein! —Cindy Beberman, Orland Park, Illinois

Ingredients

2 tablespoons olive oil
1-3/4 cups finely chopped sweet onion
1-1/2 cups uncooked pearl (Israeli) couscous
1-3/4 cups water
3/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon curry powder
1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
1/4 teaspoon ground coriander
1/4 cup minced fresh cilantro
2 tablespoons finely chopped mint leaves
1/3 cup dried currants
2 teaspoons grated lemon zest
1/3 cup pine nuts, toasted
Lemon wedges, optional

Directions

In a large saucepan, heat oil over medium heat. Add onions; cook and stir 6-8 minutes or until tender. Add couscous; cook and stir 2-3 minutes or until couscous is lightly browned.
Add water, salt, cinnamon, curry powder, cumin and coriander; bring to a boil. Reduce heat; simmer, covered, 7-10 minutes or until liquid is absorbed and couscous is tender. Stir in currants, cilantro, mint and lemon zest; let stand 5 minutes Fluff with a fork. Sprinkle with toasted pine nuts. If desired, serve with lemon wedges.